076 – Sexual Harassment and Public Transit

There was a study conducted of 600 Parisian women regarding sexual harassment and public transportation in which all, that’s 100%, of the respondents claimed to have experienced one form or another of sexual harassment while using public transit.

That may be surprising to some men, but, as women, we can all (or most) attest to this statistic as lived experience. It’s part of our daily norm; catcalls, come-ons, gropes, lewd gestures, masturbation being performed in front of us(?!) can, and does, happen.

In terms of public transportation, or alternative commuting options, women around the world are facing these demeaning, and sometimes physically violent, situations while trying to get to work, or school, or going to see family or friends… you know, just trying to live their life.

Public transportation is so vitally necessary for women to have access to good jobs, school, affordable daycare, shopping, and many other things, but we are being failed in terms of safety and accountability. We need more to be done. And, thankfully, there are people working hard, advocating for women’s right to safe public space.

Please listen in to hear a few tips on how you can help and how to protect yourself in the meantime.